200
LETTERS OF
even at his entrance, prepare his mind for such an event. Health, fortune, tranquillity, and private connexions, I have sacrificed upon the altar of the public; and the only return I received, because I will not concur to dupe and mislead a senseless multitude, is barely, that they have not yet torn me in pieces. That this has been the only return is my pride, and a source of more real satisfaction than honours or prosperity. I can practise, before I am old, the lessons I learned in my youth ; nor shall I forget the words of my ancient Monitor:
- "'Tis the last key-stone
- "That makes the arch : the rest that there were put,
- "Are nothing till that comes to bind and shut;
- "Then stands it a triumphal mark! Then men
- "Observe the strength, the height, the why and when
- "It was erected; and still, walking under,
- "Meet some new matter to look up and wonder!
- I am, SIR,
- Your humble Servant,
- JOHN HORNE.
- Your humble Servant,
- I am, SIR,
